Newport Avenue Market, which offers shoppers both mainstream and specialty grocery options, was recently awarded the Ben Schwartz Retail Grocery Visionary Award from Unified Grocers. This is the 10th year that Unified Grocers has presented the award to an outstanding independent retailer and the first time this award has been given to a single store. Rudy and Debbie Dory and their daughter, Lauren Johnson, owners of Newport Avenue Market, accepted the award at a special awards dinner in Los Angeles.

Ben Schwartz (seated) with Bob Ling of Unified Grocers and Newport Avenue Market owners Debbie Dory, Lauren Johnson and Rudy Dory.“It’s an honor to receive this prestigious award, and I’m proud that Newport Avenue Market is the first single-store recipient,” said Rudy Dory.

In presenting the award, Bob Ling, president and chief executive officer of Unified Grocers, said that Newport Avenue Market has thrived because it’s a reflection of the Dory family: “Rudy, Debbie and Lauren are committed not only to their customers and their staff but also to the local community and that’s reflected in their many successes over the years.

“Their passion to create a unique shopping experience is clearly evident as you walk through the store,” he added. “Innovation, quality and a friendly, knowledgeable staff are central to the success of Newport Avenue Market and that’s why customers come from near and far.”

The award is given to an independent retail grocer or grocery company that is a leader and innovator in the retail grocery industry. The award recognizes retailers who, by their practice and example, have consistently demonstrated initiative, creativity and leadership within their businesses and, in the process, have inspired others to think and act creatively and with passion in the grocery field. To be eligible, retailers must be — or have been — a member of Unified Grocers or one of its predecessor companies.